Ep 5. Online Brides

In episode 5 of season 1 of Our America with Lisa Ling, titled "Online Brides," Ling explores the controversial world of international marriage brokers and the growing trend of men in the United States seeking out and marrying women from other countries.

Ling meets with several men who have married women from abroad through websites that specialize in facilitating these types of relationships, such as A Foreign Affair and Cherry Blossoms. She also speaks with several of the women who have become "online brides" and chronicles their experiences.

Throughout the episode, Ling delves into the potential dangers and ethical concerns surrounding this practice. She questions whether the women involved are being coerced or exploited, and examines the risks of domestic violence and abuse that can occur in these types of relationships.

As Ling begins to understand the complexities of this issue, she also uncovers the challenges faced by those attempting to regulate the industry. She speaks with industry insiders and government officials about current laws and regulations and explores the difficulties of enforcing these laws.

Ultimately, the episode raises important questions about the ethics and legality of international marriage brokers and the role that the United States government should play in regulating these practices. It sheds light on a controversial topic that has largely remained in the shadows and challenges viewers to consider the implications and consequences of seeking love abroad.